10826564

A System of Signal-Over-Power Network Adapters for Low Power Networks

PublishedNovember 3, 2020
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Technical Abstract

Patent Claims
15 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. A system for enabling multipoint power injection and data communication in a local area network, the system comprising: a plurality of network appliances connected to the local area network, and wherein the plurality of network appliances are low power network devices; a plurality of power supplies configured for supplying power to the plurality of network appliances, and wherein the plurality of power supplies are connected to the local area network; a network cable configured for transmitting a power signal and a data signal over the local area network, and wherein the local area network comprises the plurality of power supply devices, the plurality of network appliances and gateway devices connected on to the network cable, and wherein the plurality of network appliances and the plurality of gateway devices are configured to derive at least one of the power signal and the data signal from the network cable; and a plurality of signal-over-power (SOP) adapters configured for enabling multipoint power injection and data communication in the local area network, and wherein an SOP adapter is connected to each network appliance, each power supply and gateway device, and wherein each SOP adapter is configured to perform any one of coupling and decoupling of the data signal and the power signal using a bias T-network with diodes to perform multipoint power injection and a transistor-resistor network to control a frequency spectrum of the data signal for achieving a data communication.

Plain English Translation

A system enables multipoint power injection and data communication in a local area network (LAN) by integrating power supplies, network appliances, and gateway devices connected via a network cable. The network cable transmits both power and data signals, allowing low-power network devices to derive power and data simultaneously. The system includes multiple power supplies connected to the LAN, each supplying power to the network appliances. Signal-over-power (SOP) adapters are connected to each network appliance, power supply, and gateway device. These adapters use a bias T-network with diodes to couple or decouple data and power signals, enabling multipoint power injection. Additionally, a transistor-resistor network within the SOP adapters controls the frequency spectrum of the data signal to ensure reliable data communication. The system supports multiple devices on the same network cable, simplifying infrastructure while maintaining efficient power delivery and data transmission. This approach reduces the need for separate power and data cables, optimizing space and cost in LAN deployments.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the SOP adapter comprises: a power coupler/de-coupler module configured for coupling/decoupling the data signal and the power signal, wherein the power coupler/de-coupler module comprises the bias T network with diode to couple/decouple the power signal and data signal; an optional DC regulator configured to regulate the power signal received from the power coupler/de-coupler module based on a requirement for the network appliance deriving power from the network cable; and a signal interface circuit comprising the transistor-resistor network configured for controlling the frequency spectrum of the data signal received from the power coupler/de-coupler module for enabling data communication with network appliance in the local area network.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for integrating power and data transmission over a network cable, addressing the challenge of efficiently coupling and decoupling power and data signals in a local area network (LAN) environment. The system includes a Signal Over Power (SOP) adapter designed to manage both power and data signals within the same network cable. The SOP adapter features a power coupler/de-coupler module that uses a bias T network with a diode to separate or combine the power and data signals. This module ensures that the power signal and data signal are properly isolated or merged as needed. Additionally, the SOP adapter may include an optional DC regulator to adjust the power signal voltage to meet the requirements of the network appliance receiving power through the network cable. The signal interface circuit within the adapter employs a transistor-resistor network to control the frequency spectrum of the data signal, ensuring reliable data communication with the network appliance. This design enables seamless integration of power and data transmission in a LAN, improving efficiency and reducing the need for separate power and data cables.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The system as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the power coupler/de-coupler module in the SOP adapter comprises the bias T network comprising: an inductor configured for allowing the power signal to pass through the bias T network, wherein the power signal is a direct current signal; a capacitor configured for allowing the data signal to pass through the bias T network, wherein the data signal is an alternating current signal; and a diode configured to block reverse currents that arise due to voltage differences between the plurality of power supplies across the network cable for protecting each power supply connected to the SOP adapter.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for managing power and data signals in a network cable, specifically addressing the challenge of isolating power supplies while allowing bidirectional data communication. The system includes a Small Outline Power (SOP) adapter with a power coupler/de-coupler module that integrates a bias T network. The bias T network comprises an inductor, a capacitor, and a diode. The inductor allows a direct current (DC) power signal to pass through the network cable while blocking alternating current (AC) data signals. Conversely, the capacitor permits the AC data signal to pass while blocking the DC power signal, enabling simultaneous power and data transmission. The diode prevents reverse currents caused by voltage differences between multiple power supplies connected to the SOP adapter, protecting each power supply from potential damage. This design ensures efficient power delivery and reliable data communication in network environments where multiple power sources are involved. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring both power and data over a single cable, such as in industrial automation, telecommunications, or smart infrastructure.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The system as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the signal interface circuit in the SOP adapter comprises a signal detector with the transistor-resistor network comprising: a first resistor connected to the transistor for reducing signal noise of the data signal and protecting the transistor; and a second variable resistor connected to the transistor for controlling the frequency spectrum of the data signal.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to signal interface circuits in System-on-Package (SOP) adapters, specifically addressing signal noise reduction and frequency spectrum control in data signals. The system includes a signal interface circuit with a transistor-resistor network designed to improve signal integrity. The network comprises a first resistor connected to a transistor, which reduces signal noise and protects the transistor from voltage spikes or excessive current. A second variable resistor is also connected to the transistor, allowing dynamic adjustment of the data signal's frequency spectrum to optimize performance for different applications. The variable resistor enables tuning of the signal characteristics, ensuring compatibility with varying signal requirements. This configuration enhances signal quality by minimizing interference and distortion while providing flexibility in signal processing. The system is particularly useful in high-speed data transmission environments where signal integrity is critical. The transistor-resistor network ensures reliable signal transmission by balancing noise reduction and frequency control, improving overall system performance.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The system as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the power coupler/de-coupler module in the SOP adapter is configured to perform a coupling process/operation by multiplexing the data signal passing through the capacitor and power signal passing through the inductor onto the network cable.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for integrating power and data transmission over a single network cable, addressing the challenge of simplifying infrastructure by combining power delivery and data communication. The system includes a Small Office/Home Office (SOP) adapter with a power coupler/de-coupler module that enables bidirectional power and data transfer. The module multiplexes data signals passing through a capacitor and power signals passing through an inductor onto the same network cable, allowing simultaneous transmission of both types of signals. The adapter ensures efficient power delivery while maintaining data integrity, eliminating the need for separate power and data cables. This approach reduces installation complexity and costs, particularly in environments where both power and data connectivity are required. The system is designed to support various network configurations, including Ethernet-based setups, and can be integrated into existing infrastructure with minimal modifications. The power coupler/de-coupler module dynamically manages signal coupling and decoupling, ensuring reliable performance under varying load conditions. This solution is particularly useful in scenarios where space and wiring constraints limit the use of multiple cables.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The system as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the power coupler/de-coupler module in the SOP adapter is configured to perform a decoupling process/operation by passing the power signal across the inductor and passing the data signal via the capacitor to the signal interface module while blocking the power signal.

Plain English Translation

A system for managing power and data signals in an electronic device, particularly in a small outline package (SOP) adapter, addresses the challenge of efficiently separating and routing power and data signals to prevent interference and ensure proper functionality. The system includes a power coupler/de-coupler module integrated into the SOP adapter, which is designed to handle both power and data signals. During operation, the module decouples the power signal by passing it through an inductor, while simultaneously routing the data signal through a capacitor to a signal interface module. The capacitor effectively blocks the power signal from reaching the data path, ensuring clean signal transmission. This separation prevents power signal interference with data signals, improving system reliability and performance. The inductor and capacitor components are selected to optimize signal integrity and minimize losses. The signal interface module processes the data signal for further transmission or processing within the device. This approach is particularly useful in applications where power and data signals must be managed independently, such as in high-speed communication systems or power-sensitive electronic devices. The system ensures efficient power delivery while maintaining data signal quality.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The system as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the optional regulator is connected to the power coupler/de-coupler module, when the network appliance requires a specific regulated DC voltage.

Plain English Translation

A system for managing power distribution in network appliances includes a power coupler/de-coupler module that interfaces with a power source to provide electrical power to the appliance. The system may also include an optional regulator connected to the power coupler/de-coupler module. When the network appliance requires a specific regulated DC voltage, the regulator adjusts the voltage output from the power coupler/de-coupler module to meet the appliance's requirements. This ensures stable and precise power delivery, accommodating varying voltage needs of different network devices. The regulator can be integrated or external, depending on the design, and may include features like overvoltage protection or current limiting to enhance reliability. The system is particularly useful in environments where network appliances have strict power quality demands, such as data centers or telecommunications infrastructure. By dynamically adjusting voltage levels, the system prevents damage to sensitive components and maintains optimal performance. The power coupler/de-coupler module may also handle power conversion, ensuring compatibility with different input sources while delivering the correct output to the appliance. This modular approach allows for flexibility in system configuration, supporting both regulated and unregulated power delivery as needed.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The system as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the signal interface is any one of a half-duplex system and a full duplex system depending on a communication requirement of the network appliances in the local area network.

Plain English Translation

A system for managing network communications in a local area network (LAN) includes a signal interface that dynamically adjusts between half-duplex and full-duplex modes based on the communication requirements of connected network appliances. The system monitors the data traffic and operational demands of devices within the LAN to determine the optimal communication mode. When high-speed, bidirectional data transfer is needed, such as for video streaming or large file transfers, the interface operates in full-duplex mode, allowing simultaneous transmission and reception of data. For simpler or lower-bandwidth applications, such as basic file sharing or device management, the interface switches to half-duplex mode to conserve resources while maintaining reliable communication. The system ensures efficient use of network bandwidth and reduces latency by adapting the communication mode in real-time, improving overall network performance and responsiveness. This adaptability is particularly useful in environments where different devices have varying communication needs, such as mixed-use networks with both high-performance workstations and low-power IoT devices. The dynamic switching mechanism is implemented through hardware or software logic that evaluates traffic patterns and device requirements to make seamless transitions between modes without disrupting ongoing communications.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein each network appliance among the plurality of network appliances is configured to receive at least one of a power and data signal from the network cable through the SOP adapter.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a network system where multiple network appliances are connected via a network cable through a Single Pair of Conductors (SOP) adapter. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently delivering both power and data signals to network appliances using a simplified cabling infrastructure. Each network appliance in the system is designed to receive at least one of a power signal or a data signal from the network cable through the SOP adapter. The SOP adapter facilitates the transmission of these signals over a single pair of conductors, reducing cabling complexity and cost while maintaining reliable power and data delivery. The system may include multiple network appliances, each configured to interface with the SOP adapter to extract the required signals. The use of a single pair of conductors for both power and data transmission simplifies installation and reduces material requirements, making it suitable for applications where space and wiring efficiency are critical. The system ensures compatibility with existing network infrastructure while enhancing performance and scalability.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. A method of enabling multipoint power injection and data communication in a local area network, the method comprising: sending a data signal from a first network appliance among a plurality of network appliance connected to a network cable in the local area network; providing a power signal from a power supply source among a plurality of power supplies connected to the network cable in the local area network; coupling the data signal and power signal using a bias T network in a plurality of signal-over-power (SOP) adapter connected to the first network appliance and the power supply source; transmitting coupled data signal and power signal over the network cable; decoupling data signal and power signal using a bias T network in each SOP adapter connected to each network appliance among the plurality of network appliance receiving at least one of the power signal and data signal from the network cable; receiving the power signal at multiple points in the local area network by each network appliances after regulating the power signal to a specified DC voltage as required by each network appliances using an optional regulator module in the SOP adapter; and receiving the data signal decoupled by the SOP adapter by the network appliance after adjusting the frequency spectrum of the data signal using a transistor-resistor network in a signal interface module in the SOP adapter.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for enabling multipoint power injection and data communication in a local area network (LAN). The problem addressed is the need to efficiently distribute both power and data signals over a shared network cable to multiple network appliances, such as IoT devices, sensors, or other endpoints, without requiring separate power and data cables. The method involves sending a data signal from a network appliance and providing a power signal from a power supply source, both connected to the same network cable. A bias T network in signal-over-power (SOP) adapters couples the data and power signals, allowing them to be transmitted simultaneously over the network cable. Each SOP adapter connected to a network appliance decouples the signals, ensuring that the appliance receives only the required power or data. The power signal is regulated to the appropriate DC voltage for each appliance using an optional regulator module in the SOP adapter. The data signal is processed by a transistor-resistor network in a signal interface module to adjust its frequency spectrum before being received by the appliance. This approach enables multiple network appliances to receive power and data from the same cable, simplifying network infrastructure while maintaining reliable communication and power delivery.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The method as claimed in claim 10 , wherein the coupling of data signal and power signal is performed by multiplexing the data signal passing through a capacitor and power signal passing through an inductor in the bias T network in the SOP adapter.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for coupling data and power signals in a small outline package (SOP) adapter. The problem addressed is the efficient and compact integration of data and power transmission in electronic devices, particularly where space constraints are critical. The solution involves a bias T network within the SOP adapter that multiplexes the data and power signals. The data signal is routed through a capacitor, while the power signal is routed through an inductor, allowing both signals to be combined and transmitted through a single connection. This approach ensures minimal interference between the signals while maintaining signal integrity. The capacitor blocks the DC power signal, allowing only the AC data signal to pass, while the inductor blocks the high-frequency data signal, allowing only the DC power signal to pass. This method enables simultaneous transmission of data and power in a compact form factor, suitable for applications requiring high-density interconnects. The system is particularly useful in devices where space efficiency and signal integrity are critical, such as in high-speed communication systems or power-over-data applications. The use of a bias T network ensures that the data and power signals remain isolated from each other, preventing signal degradation and ensuring reliable operation.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The method as claimed in claim 10 , wherein the decoupling of data signal and power signal is performed by passing the power signal across the inductor and passing the data signal via the capacitor to a signal interface module while blocking the power signal.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a method for decoupling data signals and power signals in an electronic system. The problem addressed is the interference and inefficiency that occurs when data and power signals are transmitted together, leading to signal degradation and power loss. The solution involves separating the data and power signals to improve signal integrity and power efficiency. The method includes passing the power signal through an inductor, which allows the power signal to pass while blocking high-frequency data signals. Simultaneously, the data signal is routed through a capacitor to a signal interface module. The capacitor blocks the power signal from reaching the data path, ensuring clean data transmission. This decoupling prevents interference between the signals, enhancing system performance. The inductor and capacitor are selected based on their frequency response characteristics to ensure proper filtering. The inductor is chosen to have a low impedance at the power signal frequency but high impedance at the data signal frequency, while the capacitor has a low impedance at the data signal frequency but high impedance at the power signal frequency. This ensures efficient separation of the signals. The signal interface module processes the data signal after decoupling, enabling reliable data transmission. The method is applicable in systems where data and power signals are combined, such as in power-over-data-line (PoDL) applications, improving both power delivery and data communication quality.

Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The method as claimed in claim 10 , wherein the adjusting of frequency spectrum of a data signal is performed by varying the value of a variable resistor in the transistor-resistor network.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to signal processing, specifically to methods for adjusting the frequency spectrum of a data signal using a transistor-resistor network. The problem addressed is the need for precise and dynamic control over signal frequency characteristics in electronic circuits, particularly in applications requiring real-time adjustments. The method involves modifying the frequency spectrum of a data signal by altering the resistance value within a transistor-resistor network. The network includes at least one transistor and one resistor, where the resistor's value is variable. By adjusting this resistance, the frequency response of the network is dynamically changed, allowing for fine-tuned control over the signal's spectral properties. This adjustment can be used to filter, amplify, or otherwise modify the signal as needed. The transistor-resistor network may be part of a larger circuit, such as an amplifier, filter, or signal conditioning module. The variable resistor can be implemented using electronic components like digital potentiometers or adjustable resistors, enabling automated or manual resistance adjustments. The method ensures that the frequency spectrum of the data signal is modified in a controlled manner, improving signal integrity and performance in various applications, including communications, audio processing, and sensor interfacing. The approach provides flexibility in signal processing without requiring complex or expensive hardware modifications.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. The method as claimed in claim 10 , further comprises blocking reverse currents that arise due to voltage differences between the plurality of power supplies across the network cable for protecting the power supply using a diode in the power coupler/de-coupler module in the SOP adapter.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to power distribution systems in networked environments, specifically addressing the challenge of protecting power supplies from reverse currents caused by voltage differences between multiple power sources connected via a network cable. The system includes a power coupler/de-coupler module integrated into a Small Office/Home Office (SOP) adapter, which facilitates power distribution across the network. The module is designed to manage power flow between devices while preventing reverse current flow that could damage power supplies. A diode within the module acts as a protective barrier, ensuring that current only flows in the intended direction, thereby safeguarding the power supply from voltage imbalances. The solution is particularly useful in environments where multiple power sources are connected to a single network, such as in home or small office setups, where voltage fluctuations can occur due to varying power demands or supply conditions. By incorporating this diode-based protection mechanism, the system ensures stable and safe power distribution while maintaining compatibility with standard network cabling. The invention enhances reliability and longevity of power supplies in networked power distribution applications.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. The method as claimed in claim 10 , comprises rapidly deploying of power and data communication across the plurality of network appliances from the network cable in a local area network for typical Internet of Things (IoT) type applications.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a method for rapidly deploying power and data communication across multiple network appliances in a local area network (LAN), particularly for Internet of Things (IoT) applications. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently providing both power and data connectivity to IoT devices, which often require quick and scalable deployment without complex wiring or additional infrastructure. The method involves using a network cable to simultaneously deliver power and data to a plurality of network appliances. This eliminates the need for separate power and data connections, simplifying installation and reducing costs. The approach is designed for typical IoT applications, where devices such as sensors, actuators, and smart home appliances require both power and communication capabilities. The method ensures rapid deployment by leveraging existing LAN infrastructure, allowing for quick setup and scalability. It supports multiple network appliances, enabling seamless integration into IoT ecosystems. The solution is particularly useful in environments where wired connections are preferred over wireless for reliability and security, such as industrial IoT, smart buildings, and automated systems. By combining power and data transmission over a single network cable, the method reduces clutter, minimizes installation time, and enhances system efficiency. This approach is suitable for both new installations and retrofitting existing networks, making it a versatile solution for modern IoT deployments.

Patent Metadata

Filing Date

Unknown

Publication Date

November 3, 2020

Inventors

NISHIL THOMAS KOSHY
DHANANJAI BAJPAI

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